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Atlantic Corridor Medical Student
Research Conference 2019
Brookfield Health Sciences Complex
University College Cork
November 7th
Atlantic Corridor Medical Student Research Conference 2019
Welcome Message from the Local Organising Committee
Welcome to the 2019 Atlantic Corridor Conference
On behalf of the local organising committee, we are delighted to welcome you all to the 6th Atlantic
Corridor Medical Student Research Conference. This intervarsity undergraduate research
showcase will provide an opportunity to enjoy presentations on a diverse range of clinical and
translational medical research projects completed across two of the ‘Atlantic Corridor’ medical
schools – UCC and NUIG. This year’s varied and exciting programme consists of 12 short oral and
32 poster presentations, in addition to a plenary lecture by one of Ireland’s most prominent experts
in molecular virology.
We hope that all visiting students and staff enjoy the conference programme, as well as the
hospitality of UCC staff during the event.
We would like to acknowledge the ongoing generous support of UCC School of Medicine’s Research
and Postgraduate Affairs Committee for providing support for this event. Thank you also to Ms
Emma O’Reilly, Senior Executive Assistant at UCC School of Medicine, for providing administrative
support.
Dr Eileen Duggan, Dr Colm O’Tuathaigh
Medical Education Unit, School of Medicine, UCC
Atlantic Corridor Medical Student
Research Conference Schedule 2019
Schedule – At a Glance
09:30 – 09:50
Oral Presentations in Rm G02
Registration & Refreshments (served in Jennings Gallery)
09:50 – 10:00 Opening Address by Dr Deirdre Bennett, Head of Medical Education, UCC
10:00 – 11:15 Oral Presentations I
Session Chairs: Dr Eileen Duggan (UCC), Dr Róisín Dwyer (NUIG)
11:15 – 11:30 Coffee, Jennings Gallery
11:30 – 12:30 Oral Presentations II
Session Chairs: Dr Akke Vellinga (NUIG), Dr Colm O’Tuathaigh (UCC)
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch & Poster Session, Rm 2.63
13:30 – 14:15 Oral Presentations III
Session Chairs: Dr Eileen Duggan (UCC), Dr Róisín Dwyer (NUIG)
14:15 – 15:00 Plenary Lecture – Rm G02
“Miles to Go Before we Sleep”
Dr Liam Fanning, Director, Molecular Virology Diagnostic
and Research Laboratory, Cork University Hospital
15:00 – 15:15 Prize-giving and Closing Address by Dr Liam Fanning, Chair of Research and Postgraduate Affairs Committee, School of Medicine, UCC
Oral Presentations I – Rm G02
10:00 Presenter: Marah Shaik Yousef (NUIG)
Title: Trends in Antimicrobial Prescribing Patterns for Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis in a Non-specialist Centre; Which Guidelines to Follow?
10:15 Presenter: Sean Seltzer (UCC)
Title: The Clinicomolecular Landscape of De Novo versus Relapsed Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Case-control Study
10:30 Presenter: Mona Benaissa (NUIG)
Title: The Demographic and Clinical Profile of Older Adults with T2DM and Dementia in the North West of Ireland: A Cross Sectional Study
10:45 Presenter: Meghan Bourque (UCC)
Title: Improving the Quality of Dementia Care in General Practice: A Qualitative Study
11:00 Presenter: Ailish Breathnach (NUIG)
Title: Infant feeding: How do Irish Parents Plan to Wean on Foot of Important Advances for Primary Prevention of Food Allergy?
Oral Presentations II – Rm G02
11:30 Presenter: Bailey Crowley (UCC)
Title: The Interaction of Presbycusis and SALADs on Medical Error
11:45 Presenter: Sinead Burke (NUIG)
Title: Evaluating the Levels of Cognitive Impairment in Pre-manifest and Manifest Huntington’s Disease Patients Compared to Controls: A Comprehensive Analysis of the ENROLL-HD Database
12:00 Presenter: Mario Rotundo (UCC) & Darek Sokol-Randell (UCC)
Title: Characteristics and Assessment of Potential Concussive Events in Gaelic Athletic Association Players
12:15 Presenter: Pádraig Folan (NUIG)
Title: Evaluating Progesterone Receptor (PgR) Status as a Prognostic Indicator in Estrogen-receptor Positive Breast Cancer
Oral Presentations III – Rm G02
13:30 Presenter: Leah Falvey (UCC)
Title: What Does Your Pelvic Floor Do for You? Knowledge of the Pelvic Floor in Female University Students
13:45 Presenter: Alan Keane (NUIG)
Title: The Effect of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Conditioned Media on Myoblast Proliferation and Differentiation in vitro
14:00 Presenter: Jane Creech (UCC)
Title: The Incidence of Concurrent Benzodiazepine Use in Methadone Patients
Poster Presentations
BHSC_263
P1 Promoting Cultural Competence Among Health and Social Science Students in Postgraduate Education: An Integrated Systematic Review Christopher Lie Ken Jie 1, Doris Y. Leung 2, Yvonne Finn 1 1 College of Medicine, National University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
2 Review of the National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre Perinatal Mortality Audit Reports (2009-2016) Arlene Gutman 1, Änne Helps 2,3,4, Sara Leitao 3, Keelin O’Donoghue 2,4 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Pregnancy Loss Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, Ireland; 3 National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre (NPEC), University College Cork, Ireland; 4 The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Ireland
P3 Analysis of Serum Extracellular Vesicle (EV) Encapsulated MicroRNA-193b Karin Ishak, Clodagh O'Neill, Katie Gilligan, Roisin Dwyer School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
P4 Differences between Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery and Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on Postoperative Lipid Levels and BMI Kah Jin Lee 1, Aaron Kwun Hang Ho 1, Colm O'Boyle 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Surgery, Bons Secours Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P5 Plasma Exchange in the Management of Paediatric Renal Conditions: Single Centre Experience over 17 years Conor Devlin 1, Conor Hensey 2, Clodagh Sweeney 3, Tara Raftery 3, Atif Awan 3, C Costigan 3, G Stone 3, M Waldron 3, N Dolan 3, M Riordan 3, M Stack 3 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 General Paediatrics, Children’s Health Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; 3 The Department for Paediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, Children’s Health Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
P6 Exploring the Views of Irish General Practitioners to a Patient-held Checklist for Epilepsy Reviews: A Qualitative Feasibility Study Andrew Namespetra 1, W. Henry Smithson 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of General Practice, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
P7 An Exploratory Study of the Prevalence of Palmar and Plantar Warts in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Therese Mc Carthy 1, Kate Finn 1, Aine Keogh 2, Gloria Avalos 1, 2, Laurence Egan 1, 2 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
P8 Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs of Pregnant Women regarding Epidural Analgesia Catherine Henry 1, Daniel Mullane 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Anaesthetics, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P9 An Audit of Paediatric Cases Referred to the Office of the State Pathologist from 2012-2017 Shane Eakins 1, Kathleen Han Suyin 2, Linda Mulligan 2 1 School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 2 The Office of the State Pathologist, Dublin, Ireland
P10 Correlation between Bhalla Score and Clinical Parameters in the Assessment of Disease Severity in Cystic Fibrosis Patients with Poor Lung Function on Treatment with Orkambi (ivacaftor/lumacaftor) Dane Gunter 1, Michael M. Maher 2, Barry Plant 3, Owen J. O'Connor 2, Brian Carey 2, Richard Kavanaugh 2, Stella Joyce 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Cork University Hospital Radiology Department, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Cystic Fibrosis Treatment Centre, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P11 Twinned Audit of Severe Pre-Eclampsia Management to Address Equity in Maternal and Fetal Health in Mayo & Londiani Katie Moran 1, Collins Biwott 2, Nada Warreth 3, Catherine Taaffe 3, Aoife Sweeney 1, Maria Kidney 4, Anne Healy 4, Meabh Ni Bhuineain 1, 3 1 School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Londiani Sub-County Hospital, East Kericho, Kenya; 3 Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar, Ireland; 4 Brighter Communities Worldwide, Cork, Ireland
P12 Safety Issues in Paediatric Emergency Departments Mairéad O'Donnell 1, Ronan O'Sullivan 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Medical Assessment Unit, Bon Secours Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P13 The Use of Wearable Devices to Monitor Motor Disability in Multiple Sclerosis - A Real World Pilot Study Daniel Coyle 1, Teresa Leahy 2, Eithne Waldron 3, Timothy Counihan 2 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Neurology, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland; 3 Department of Physiotherapy, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
P14 Assessment of Differences in Lifestyle Factors and Biological Sex on Cognition and Inflammation in Healthy Older Aged Adults Ciara O'Donoghue 1, 2, Caitriona Long-Smith 2, Stefanie Grabrucker 2, Gerard Clarke 3, 4, Suzanne Timmons 5, Yvonne M. Nolan 2, 4 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, School of Medicine, University College Cork; 4 APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 5 Centre for Gerontology and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
P15 Cancer Cachexia in Breast Cancer’s Effect on Muscle Fibre Size and Mitochondrial and Atrophic RNA Expression in a Mouse Model Jacob Lavieille-Curran 1, Roisin Dwyer 2, 3, Katarzyna Whysall 4, 5 1 School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 3 Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI®), National University of Ireland, Galway; 4
Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 5 Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
P16 A Retrospective Review of the Perinatal Palliative Care (PPC) Programme at Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH) Caoimhe Healy 1, 2, Anna-Maria Verling 2, 3, Rióna Cotter 2, Keelin O'Donoghue 1, 2, 3 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Pregnancy Loss Research Group, 3 Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P17 Assessing the usefulness of three-dimensional imaging and virtual reality in surgical planning: A medical student led pilot study Clodagh Ryan 1, Eoin O' Malley 2, Declan Sheppard 2 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Radiology, University Hospital Galway (UHG), Galway, Ireland
P18 The added utility of the EMA panel to the clinical and pharmacological management of suspected inflammatory conditions Siobhan Clifford 1, Grainne Murphy 2, John Ryan 2, Liam Chawke 3, Carol Higgins 4, Katherine Hooley 4, Caroline Joyce 4, Seán Costelloe 4 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Rheumatology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Respiratory Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 4 CUH Immunology Laboratory, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P19 Effects of Chemotherapy on Tumor Stromal Cells in Breast Cancer Patients Carson McFeetors 1, Domhnall O'Connor 1, Gloria Avalos 2, Laura Barkely 1, Michael Kerin 1 1 Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 The Clinical Science Institute, The National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
P20 Brain Imaging at the Time of Diagnosis of Lung Cancer. A Large Retrospective Study of Compliance with National Guidelines. EP Soh 1, MT Henry 2, D Power 3, MP Kennedy 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Respiratory Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Oncology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P21 Knowledge of and Attitudes towards HPV and the HPV Vaccine among Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Kate Finn 1, Laurence Egan 2, Therese McCarthy 1, Aine Keogh 3, Linda Duane 3
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland; 3 Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
P22 An Investigation into Potential Prognostic Indicators in a Large Cohort of Patients with Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) Thomas Talbot 1, Richard Bambury 2, Michael Henry 3, Marcus Kennedy 3 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Medical Oncology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Respiratory Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P23 Men's Perceptions of Living with Osteoporosis: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies Marie Compton 1, Ben W Mortenson 2, Joanna Sale 3, 4, Alex Crossman 5, Maureen C Ashe 6, 7 1 National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 2 GF Strong Rehabilitation Research Program, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; 3 Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; 4 Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; 5 Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; 6 Centre for Hip Health and Mobility, Vancouver, BC, Canada; 7 The University of Adelaide, Australia
P24 The Relationship of Athlete Factors and Patient Reported Outcomes on Return to Play 1-year post ACL Reconstruction Liana Balaghi 1, Enda King 2, Lindsay Tetreault 1, Eanna Falvey 1, 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Sports Surgery Clinic (SSC), Dublin, Ireland
P25 Using Fitbit to Track Sleep and Exercise in Older Adults with Dementia Noof Al-Balushi 1, P Doyle 2, N Gallagher 2, A. Dorey 2, S Smyth 2, D Casey 2 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 School of Nursing and Midwifery, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
P26 Patients Referred for Arteriovenous Fistula Construction: A Retrospective Outcome Analysis Andrew S. Kucey 1, Doireann P. Joyce 2, Teresa O'Neill 3, Gregory J Fulton 1, 2, William D. Plant 1, 3, Brian J. Manning 1, 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Vascular Surgery, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Renal Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P27 hESC-Derived Cerebral Organoids Demonstrate Brain Regionalisation Li Ying Tay 1, Lifeng Qiu 2, Wei Ling Jolene Lee 2, Li Zeng 2 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Neural Stem Cell Research Laboratory, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
P28 Three-dimensional Computed Tomographic Reconstruction of Superficial Femoral Artery: Anatomical Variation as a Risk Factor for Arterial Disease Ahmad Kamaludin 1, Brian Manning 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Vascular Surgery, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P29 The Grit Factor- Acquired or Inherent? John Cosgrave 1, Sami Abd Elwahab 2, Aoife Lowery 2 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Discipline of Surgery, Lambe institute for Translational Research, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
P30 The Implication of BRAF Mutation in Advanced Colorectal Cancer Emma O'Riordan 1, William Bennett 2, Derek Power 3 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Pathology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department Medical Oncology, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
P31 Development of Bone Phantoms for Evaluation of a Novel Osteoporosis Monitoring Device Daniel Kelly 1, Bilal Amin 2, Adnan Elahi 2 1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Translational Medical Device Lab, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
P32 A Five-year Retrospective Review of Fatalities Involving Novel Psychoactive Substances in Southern Ireland Andrew Mazurek 1, Margot Bolster 2 1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Pathology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
Oral/Poster abstracts
O1
Trends in Antimicrobial Prescribing Patterns for Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis in a Non-specialist
Centre; Which Guidelines to Follow?
M. Shaikh Yousef 1, P. Kakodkar 1, V. Vikneswaramoorthy 2, R. Cafferkey 3, M. Ronan 1, W. Khan 4, I.
Khan 4, R. Waldron 4, S. Sibartie 2, K.Barry 1, 4
1 Mayo Medical Academy, National University of Ireland Galway; 2 Department of Microbiology,
Mayo University Hospital, Soalta Health Care Group, Castlebar, Ireland; 3 Department of
Antimicrobial Pharmacy, Mayo University Hospital, Soalta Health Care Group, Castlebar, Ireland; 4
Department of Surgery, Mayo University Hospital, Soalta Health Care Group, Castlebar, Ireland
Introduction: Local antimicrobial guidelines recommend considering ceftriaxone and metronidazole,
in patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis, admitted to the ICU, whereas several international
guidelines and surgeons from national hepato-biliary (HPB) referral centres recommend using
Carbepenems, which increase the risk of acquiring Carbapenemase Producing Enterobacterales
(CPE). We aim to review the antimicrobial management of patients admitted to the ICU with acute
necrotizing pancreatitis and assess the antimicrobial recommendation from national HPB centres.
Methods: Treatment data of patients admitted to the ICU with query acute pancreatitis between
September 2016 and February 2019 was extracted from a prospectively maintained microbiology
electronic database for the following case series and consent was obtained.
Results: Seventeen patients admitted to the ICU with query pancreatitis were included. Out of the
17 patients, 71 % were male (n= 12) with a median age of 60 (36-80) years. Fifteen had radiologically
confirmed acute pancreatitis; 8 of which had acute severe necrotizing pancreatitis (9 episodes).
Meropenem was recommended in 37.5 % of the episodes (n=6), and 66.7 % of the time (n= 4), it was
recommended by a national HPB centre. Leading on from that, the median duration of meropenem
use was 5 days [range 3-14]. The most prescribed antibiotic for this cohort of patients was
piperacillin/tazobactam, 81.8 % of the episodes. One patient acquired CPE.
Conclusion: Meropenem should be used cautiously in acute necrotizing pancreatitis due to the
associated risk of CPE. Moreover, there is a need to standardize antimicrobial usage for acute
necrotizing pancreatitis in the ICU environment.
O2
The Clinicomolecular Landscape of De Novo versus Relapsed Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer: A
Case-control Study
Sean Seltzer 1, Seamus O'Reilly 2, Mark Corrigan 3
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork; 2 Mercy University Hospital, Cork; 3 Department
of Surgery, Cork University Hospital, Cork
Background: de novo metastatic breast cancer (dnMBC) has remained resistant to detection by
mammography screening and is steadily increasing. Recent publications suggest dnMBC may be due
to their unfavourable biology. Here we investigated the tumour biology of dnMBC in the form of
genomic alterations and differential gene expression to create a comparative landscape of de novo
vs. relapsed metastatic breast cancer (rMBC).
Methods: Using TCGA tumour data we conducted differential gene expression analysis between 17
dnMBC and 49 rMBC primary tumours. We compared their clinicopathology, genomes and
functional enrichment of their differentially expressed gene clusters. dnMBC-specific biomarkers
were detected by comparing dnMBC samples to 113 normal breast tissue controls.
Results: dnMBCs showed improved median survival vs rMBC (36 vs. 12 months). dnMBCs were more
likely to be hormone receptor positive, less likely to be triple negative with lower histological
lymphocytic infiltrate. In terms of genome alterations, dnMBCs had 4-fold increased PTEN mutations
and poor survival with ABL2 and GATA3 alterations. Expression-wise, dnMBCs downregulated TNFa,
IL-17 signalling, and chemotaxis, while upregulating steroid biosynthesis, cell migration, and cell-
adhesion. Biomarker analysis detected pre-existing and novel breast cancer biomarkers.
Conclusion: The comparative tumour landscape revealed significant clinical, pathological and
molecular differences between dnMBC and rMBC, indicating that dnMBC may be a phenomenon of
its own with differing paths to metastasis from that of rMBC. Additionally, we provided a list of
preliminary serum biomarkers that may be useful in detecting dnMBC in between mammograms in
its pre-metastatic window if such a window exists.
O3
The Demographic and Clinical Profile of Older Adults with T2DM and Dementia in the North West
of Ireland: A Cross Sectional Study
Mona Benaissa 1, Sonn Patel 2, Aislinn Gannon 2, Catherine Dolan 1, Geraldine McCarthy 1,
Marguerite O'Donnell 3, Grainne O'Malley 3, Chee Lin Piong 1
1 National University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Sligo-Leitrim Mental Health Services, Sligo,
Ireland; 3 Sligo University Hospital, The Mall, Sligo, Ireland
Background: Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent disorder which has been associated
with comorbidities including changes in cognition. As the rates of diabetes and dementia are
predicted to rise, it has become important to identify the factors that contribute to the progression
of dementia in individuals with T2DM. The objectives were to establish the demographic and clinical
profile of patients with dementia and co-morbid T2DM in an active patient caseload in a community
and hospital setting.
Methods: A case register of patients with dementia attending psychiatry of old age and geriatric
services in northwest Ireland between Jan 2018-July 2019 was developed and analysed as part of a
National Pilot for integrated care.
Results: Out of 497 patients with dementia, 68 patients (13.7%) had a diagnosis of T2DM. In the
subpopulation of patients with dementia and T2DM, the most common subtype of dementia was
mixed dementia (13.2%). There was a high prevalence of depression in this population at 19.1%.
Additonally, 42.6% of the patients were prescribed an antidepressant. In relation to cardiovascular
co-morbidities, hypertension was the most common at 54.4%. High rate of polypharmacy were
found with 69.1 % of patients on greater than five total medications. Additionally, 19.1 % of patients
had evidence of microvessel ischemia.
Conclusion: Our results suggest that there is a high prevalence of comorbid cardiovascular,
cerebrovascular, depressive disorders and polypharmacy in this cohort. This highlights the
heterogenous nature of the factors affecting brain health and the need for further research into
identifying targeted dementia prevention strategies.
O4
Improving the Quality of Dementia Care in General Practice: A Qualitative Study
Meghan Bourque 1, Tony Foley 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of General Practice,
University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
Background: The prevalence of dementia in Ireland is rising. General Practitioners (GPs) play a
central role in caring for people with dementia. There is a growing demand for community-based
care, emphasized by the Irish National Dementia Strategy (INDS). However, there is a paucity of
research exploring GPs’ views on dementia care since publication of the INDS. The aim of the study is
to develop a deeper understanding of how to improve the quality of dementia care in General
Practice from the perspective of Irish GPs.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs. GPs who completed the ‘Dementia
in Primary Care’ CPD module at UCC were purposively recruited. Interviews were audio-recorded,
transcribed, and analyzed by thematic analysis.
Results: 12 (34.3%) GPs agreed to participate. 10 interviews have been conducted to-date. Interview
findings fell into three major categories: facilitating factors; barriers to care; and recommendations
to enhance care. Quality care was facilitated by continuity of care, early disease recognition, coding,
audit, and coordinated care teams. Time, funding, access to secondary care, and inadequate
community resources hindered care. GPs emphasized the need for coordinated community services,
GP education, review of the chronic disease management scheme for GPs, and service
standardization to improve care.
Conclusion: GPs find dementia care to be a complex and challenging aspect of primary care. While
education and training is advocated by GPs, service delivery also needs to be reconfigured. Dementia
needs to be included under chronic disease management in Ireland and services must become
standardized.
O5
Infant Feeding: How do Irish Parents Plan to Wean on Foot of Important Advances for Primary
Prevention of Food Allergy?
Ailish Breathnach 1, Edina Moylett 2, Rosemary Geoghegan 2
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Academic Department of Paediatrics, NUI
Galway, Galway, Ireland
Background: Current evidence (LEAP study)1 supports early introduction (c.4-6 months) of allergy
associated foods (e.g., peanut), which may protect against food allergy development. Traditionally,
Irish weaning habits exclude allergenic foods up to one year and beyond. Aim: To investigate
parental intentions concerning infant introduction of allergy associated foods and possible
influencing factors.
Methods: Prospective, cross-sectional study, post-natal unit, University Hospital Galway; 260
parents invited to complete a modified, validated questionnaire2. Pearson’s Chi-Square and Fischer
Exact (SPSS v25) explored associations between weaning practice and influencing factors. Clinical
Research Ethics Committee (GUH) approved the study.
Results: In total, 200 parents completed the study, 156(78.4%) female, 180(90.9%) Caucasian,
90(45.3%) first-time parents, 169(84.9%) third-level education. Mean knowledge score concerning
food allergy was 39.37% (SD, 14.2%). Most parents intend on introducing egg (135, 69.2%), fish
(127, 65.5%) and wheat (147, 76.6%) into their infant’s diet at 6-12 months and over 70% will include
these foods regularly. However, 141(75.4%), 143(76.2%), 154(81.5%) parents intend to wait until the
infant is over 12 months to introduce peanuts, tree-nuts and shellfish respectively and over 80% will
not include them regularly. Influences on weaning practice included, infant development and
information from healthcare professionals. Some significant associations (p
O6
The Interaction of Presbycusis and SALADs on Medical Error
Bailey Crowley 1, Colm O'Tuathaigh 2, Patrick Henn 2, Simon Smith 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Medical Education Unit, School of
Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
Background: Our ageing society and advancing medical breakthroughs has brought with it new
challenges for our health care system. This study, in particular, hopes to highlight presbycusis, the
most common cause of sensorineural hearing loss, and sound-alike, look-alike drugs (SALADs), a
group of medications whose names either look or sound similar. Both SALADs and presbycusis, as
individual variables, have been associated with medical error. However, few studies exist on
interaction of these variables on patients’ ability to correctly identify medication.
Methods: A single-blind randomised control trial was carried out with 41 university students. This
group was chosen to limit confounding variables such as presbycusis and age related-cognitive
decline. The group was divided into the control and presbycusis groups. Both groups saw identical
videos of a person saying 15 SALADs. However, the presbycusis group video had the sound distorted
by 30dBs to simulate presbycusis.
Results: Overall correct SALADs identification was decreased by 7.7% in the presbycusis group
compared to the control (p
O7
Evaluating the Levels of Cognitive Impairment in Pre-manifest and Manifest Huntington’s Disease
Patients Compared to Controls. A Comprehensive Analysis of the ENROLL-HD Database
Sinead Burke 1, Donal Campbell 2, Brendan Dineen 1, Tom Burke 2, Niall Pender 3
1 School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Psychology,
Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont Road, Dublin 9, Ireland; 3 Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity
Biomedical Sciences Institute, Pearse Street, Dublin, Ireland
Background: Huntington’s disease (HD), an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease
consists of pre-manifest and manifest phases. The aims of this study was to investigate cognitive
outcomes in the pre-manifest and manifest HD patients compared to controls.
Methods: The Enroll-HD database of 15,301 participants was analysed by stratifying participants
into groups: manifest HD (M), pre-manifest HD (P-M), genotype negative (GN) and family controls
(FC). Cognitive tests on executive functioning, processing speed, and working memory were
conducted, e.g. MMSE and symbol digit modality test (SDMT). Differences across sub-groups in
cognitive scores were analysed using ANOVA and binary logistic regression (BLR) models.
Results: Participants by sub-stratification: M (n=8043, 52.6%), P-M (n=3539, 23.1%), GN (n=1926,
12.6%), FC (n=1793, 11.7%). ANOVA analyses for cognitive measures indicated that M and P-M
subjects showed significantly more impairment compared to FC and GNs for executive function and
processing speed. BLR analysis on the MMSE identified greater cognitive impairment in M
(OR=30.43, 95% CI [20.26-45.70]) and P-M (OR=1.945, 95% CI [1.211-3.125]). Verbal fluency test
showed increased risk of impairment in the M (OR=45.246, 95% CI [28.635-71.492]) and the P-M
group (OR=1.807, 95% CI [1.060-3.082]) compared to controls. SDMT BLR analysis showed M group
at risk of impairment (OR=53.475, 95% CI [39.71-72.006]). Age, education, and race were
statistically significantly associated for outcomes on the MMSE, SDMT and verbal fluency within the
BLR models.
Conclusion: M and P-M subjects showed higher levels of cognitive impairment compared to
controls. Pre-manifest patients are currently considered to be asymptomatic when, in fact, there
may be a prodromal cognitive/psychiatric phase prior to motor onset.
O8
Characteristics and Assessment of Potential Concussive Events in Gaelic Athletic Association
Players
Mario Rotundo 1, Darek Sokol-Randell 1, Conor Deasy 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Emergency Medicine,
Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Background: Athletes involved in high-impact sports such as Gaelic Football are at a high risk of
sustaining Sport-Related Concussions (SRC). The acute and chronic effects of concussive and sub-
concussive impacts to the head are potentially detrimental to both athletes and healthcare systems
worldwide. Our research objective is two-fold. First, we intend to evaluate the specific
characteristics of Potential Concussive Events (PCEs) that occur in elite Gaelic Football. Secondly, to
determine if PCEs in elite Gaelic Football are assessed in accordance with GAA concussion protocol.
Methods: Two reviewers viewed 59 games of the 2018 Division 1A Gaelic Football season identifying
all PCEs. Characteristics of each injury and the subsequent assessment were measured using the
previously validated Observational Review and Analysis of Concussion form.
Results: Eighty PCEs were identified over 59 matches (1.36 per match, 1.08 per hour of exposure).
The most common mechanism of injury was hand/fist-to-head (n=24, 32.5%) and the impact
location most frequently affected was the mandibular region (n=28, 35.0%). Two (2.5%) PCEs
showed one sign of SRC, 38 (47.5%) showed two signs, 33 (41.3%) showed three signs, and seven
(8.8%) showed greater than four signs. Seventy-two (90.0%) PCEs were assessed by medical
personnel, resulting in the removal of three players (3.8%) from play. Sixty-three (79%) assessments
occurred on pitch, and the majority (n=57, 72.5%) took 0-1 minutes to complete.
Conclusion: Understanding the characteristics of PCEs in Gaelic Football may provide a framework
for the implementation of new rules and strategies to better protect the brain health of athletes.
The assessment findings demonstrate a need for improved adherence to concussion protocol.
O9
Evaluating Progesterone Receptor (PgR) Status as a Prognostic Indicator in Estrogen-receptor
Positive Breast Cancer
PJ Folan 1, N O'Halloran 2, ÉJ Ryan 2, MJ Kerin 2, A Lowery 2
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Discipline of Surgery, NUI Galway, Galway,
Ireland
Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Most of these
cancers demonstrate over-expression of estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PgR) receptors, with
therapies targeting these receptors significantly improving survival rates. Hormone receptor status is
the most significant predictive prognostic biomarker and should be measured in assessing likely
therapeutic response. We seek to demonstrate that single PR negativity is an independent
prognostic indicator in ER positive breast cancers.
Methods: Consecutive patients with ER+ve breast cancers treated from 2005-2015 were studied,
with patient outcomes measured between PgR+ve and PR-ve groups. Initial data was obtained from
a prospectively maintained database with ethical approval. Patient outcome data was updated to
last clinical review. Clinicopathologic correlates of PR status were determined. Independent
predictors of disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) between PgR groups were assessed using
Kaplan-Meier and Cox Proportional Hazards tests.
Results: 2655 patients with ER positive breast cancer and known PgR status were studied (2206
PR+ve [83.0%], 449 PR-ve [17.0%]). There was no difference in tumour size between PgR+ve and
PgR-ve tumours. Age, menopausal status, tumour grade and Her2 status were significantly
associated with PgR status, with age and lymphovascular invasion predicting advanced disease.
PgR-ve status was independently associated with reduced mean DFS (PgR+ve: 135.4 [132.6-138.3],
PgR-ve: 117.0 [110.4-123.7], p=0.001) and OS (PgR+ve: 151.4 [149.0-153.8], PgR-ve: 136.0 [130.2-
141.4], p=0.004) in months.
Conclusion: PgR negativity is associated with significant reductions in DFS and OS in ER+ breast
cancer. Treatment and surveillance strategies in these patients should be tailored accordingly.
O10
What Does Your Pelvic Floor Do For You? Knowledge of the Pelvic Floor in Female University
Students
Leah Falvey 1, Fadi Salameh 2, Orfhlaith O'Sullivan 2, Barry O'Reilly 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Cork University Maternity Hospital,
Cork, Cork, Ireland
Background: Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a known healthcare and economic burden. Pelvic floor
muscle exercises (PFMEs) can both prevent and treat PFD. Low levels of knowledge of the pelvic
floor have been associated with higher levels of PFD. Assessing the current level of knowledge in
young women will inform healthcare strategies for effective management and prevention of pelvic
floor dysfunction. The aim was to assess the knowledge of the pelvic floor in female university
students, including knowledge of pelvic floor structure and function, PFD and PFMEs.
Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed to students at their registered email address.
Knowledge was assessed through 15 questions, allocating a score of 1 to each correct question.
Results: 938 responses were received. 72.6% (n=640) of students had never received information on
the pelvic floor. 66.6% of students (n=541) said they understood what was meant by PFMEs,
however 72.4% (n=598) incorrectly identified how to perform PFMEs. Of the 42.1% (n=350) who
reported exercising their pelvic floor, 61% (n=214) incorrectly identified how to perform PFMEs.
There was statistically significant difference (p
O11
The Effect of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Conditioned Media on Myoblast
Proliferation and Differentiation in vitro.
Alan Keane 1, John W Gostage 1, 2, Clara Sanz-Nogues 1, Katarzyna Goljanek-Whysall 1, 3
1 National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 2 University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK; 3 University of
Liverpool, Liverpook, UK
Background: Critical Limb Ischaemia (CLI) is characterized by pathophysiological changes in calf
skeletal muscle, ischaemic rest pain, and non-healing ulcers. Approximately 30% of patients will
require an amputation within one year of onset. Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cell (BM-MSC)
therapy represents a promising therapeutic strategy to reduce amputation. The aim of this study
was to assess the efficacy of BM-MSCs in promoting myoblast proliferation and differentiation in
vitro.
Methods: Conditioned Media (CM) was obtained from BM-MSCs from three donors cultured in
myoblast growth media (GM) and differentiation media (DM). Primary human myoblasts were
treated with GM, GM-CM, DM, and DM-CM. The following assays were subsequently used: MTT
assay to quantify metabolic activity, DAPI staining to quantify total cell number, and Ki67 staining to
quantify the proportion of actively proliferating cells. A mouse myoblast cell line (C2C12) was
treated similarly and stained with MF20 to quantify myotube diameter and area.
Results: There was no change in myoblast metabolic activity. Treatment with DM-CM significantly
increased total number of cells at day 5 (114.99% [p=0.0015]) however, the proportion of actively
proliferating cells was decreased (67.7% [p=0.0028]), versus controls. Treatment with DM-CM
resulted in a 41.85% (p
O12
The Incidence of Concurrent Benzodiazepine Use in Methadone Patients
Jane Creech 1, Patricia Fitzgerald 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Pharmacology and
Therapeutics, University College Cork, Ireland
Background: Methadone is commonly prescribed as part of opiate maintenance therapy (OMT) to
aid the rehabilitation of opiate-addicted patients. An increasing percentage of these patients are
also being prescribed benzodiazepines. Methadone was implicated in 29% of all poisoning deaths in
2016, and diazepam was involved in 27% of poisoning deaths in Ireland in the same year.
Benzodiazepines continue to be the most commonly abused drug by polydrug users in Ireland. The
aim of this study was to identify how many methadone patients were being prescribed
benzodiazepines during the course of their OMT, and their duration of use.
Methods: Using Pharmacy Dispensing Software in a Cork pharmacy, 72 patients were identified as
having received methadone and any dispensing of benzodiazepines within the date range of their
OMT was documented.
Results: The results showed 26 of the 72 methadone patients (36.11%) used a benzodiazepine
during the course of their OMT. Only 4 of these patients (15.38%) were prescribed a benzodiazepine
for an acceptable duration (
P1
Promoting Cultural Competence Among Health and Social Science Students in Postgraduate
Education: An Integrated Systematic Review
Christopher Lie Ken Jie 1, Doris Y. Leung 2, Yvonne Finn 1
1 College of Medicine, National University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 School of Nursing, The Hong
Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
Background: Cultural competence (CC) is essential to develop the capacity to provide care that is
sensitive and acceptable to clients with diverse backgrounds. However, its perception varies among
postgraduate health and social science disciplines. For postgraduate students to ask provoking
questions and challenge traditional thought, they require education that purposefully features
knowledge and skills from multiple cultural perspectives, yet it is unclear if and how they are
educated to do this. The purpose of this study is to enhance knowledge about CC among health and
social science students in postgraduate education.
Methods: We conducted an integrated systematic review about the features of CC in health and
social science postgraduate education programs. This approach follows interpretative understanding
to explore the interplay of how, and the extent to which, individuals are enabled to have agency
within their education, viewed as a socially constructed context.
Results: Preliminary data from 6 of 34 articles suggest CC has no universal definition and tends to be
focused on knowledge of patients’ cultural traditions. CC is emphasized by improving patients’
compliance and minimizing health disparities. CC is often taught through an informal, hidden
curriculum and is measured by student self-perceptions. In addition, challenges include resistance
and comfort towards changing the status quo.
Conclusion: CC is a core component of quality care in an ever-growing diverse world. Our
preliminary findings suggest CC is not well understood and neglects that CC is a gradual process of
acquiring the skill to build one’s own awareness to appreciate, accepting, respecting and comforting
the diversity of clients.
P2
Review of the National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre Perinatal Mortality Audit Reports (2009-
2016)
Arlene Gutman 1, Änne Helps 2,3,4, Sara Leitao 3, Keelin O’Donoghue 2,4
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Pregnancy Loss Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, Ireland; 3 National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre (NPEC), University College Cork, Ireland; 4 The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Ireland
Background: The National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre (NPEC) publishes Annual Perinatal
Mortality (PM) Audit Reports, monitoring adverse perinatal outcomes, risk factors and forming
recommendations for improvement of obstetric care. Limited research has reviewed these reports,
their recommendations and related implementation.
Methods: All 8 of the publicly available NPEC PM audit reports from 2009-2016 were reviewed by 2
assessors, using a structured review tool. The general format, content, trends in the findings and
reports’ recommendations were analysed.
Results: All 19 Irish maternity units submitted data on perinatal deaths to NPEC from 2009 to 2016.
The PM Notification Form and NPEC PM Classification System were introduced in 2011, contributing
to standardising reporting methods and further data consistency. Additional data on intrapartum
death, autopsy uptake and placental conditions was also analysed in subsequent years. Major
congenital anomaly was the main cause of death for neonatal deaths in all reports. The proportion
of unexplained stillbirths has decreased over the years. Information provided on intrapartum
stillbirths and intrapartum related neonatal death was limited. From 2011, 18 recommendations
were introduced, 14 of these reiterated in subsequent reports. The recommendation to increase
research into factors affecting autopsy uptake was present in all 6 reports. Parents declined post-
mortems in 39%-46% of cases where these were available. Improved detection of foetal growth
restriction antenatally and confidential inquiries for intrapartum perinatal deaths were
recommended in 5/6 reports.
Conclusion: A standardized method for follow up of recommendations with the support of relevant
national organisations would be important. PM audits are critical in identifying whether
recommendations are applied and improving PM outcomes.
P3
Analysis of Serum Extracellular Vesicle (EV) Encapsulated MicroRNA-193b
Karin Ishak, Clodagh O'Neill, Katie Gilligan, Roisin Dwyer
School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
Background: There is an emergent need for a non-invasive circulating biomarker for Breast Cancer
to support early detection and patient stratification. Breast Cancer cells secrete Extracellular
Vesicles(EVs) containing microRNAs(miRs) believed to act as a fingerprint for the parent cell of
origin, presenting exciting potential for tumour-derived EVs as biomarkers of disease. Previous
studies by this group detected EV-miR-193b secretion by breast cancer cells in Vitro. The aim of this
study was to determine whether miR-193b was detectable in serum circulating EVs of breast cancer
patients and healthy controls
Methods: Following ethical approval and informed patient consent, serum samples were collected.
EVs from the sera of breast patients (n=6) and healthy controls (n=6) were isolated by differential
centrifugation, microfiltration and ultracentrifugation. Nanoparticle tracking Analysis(NTA) was used
to determine the number and size of EVs. RNA was extracted from EVs and cancer cells using the
MagnaPure system, reverse transcribed and amplified using PCR targeting miR-193b and miR-16
(positive control).
Results: EVs were successfully isolated from the serum of breast cancer patients and healthy
controls(n=12), with NTA revealing dispersed vesicles of 30-120nm in size. PCR resulted in successful
amplification of miR-16 in all EV samples, confirming packaging of miRs into EVs. miR-193b was not
detectable in any of the EV isolates but robust expression was detected in cancer cell RNA
confirming the efficiency of the reaction.
Conclusion: Although a small sample size, the absence of miR-193b in all serum EVs from breast
cancer patients and healthy controls suggests that this would not be a useful as a biomarker.
P4
Differences between Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery and Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on
Postoperative Lipid Levels and BMI
Kah Jin Lee 1, Aaron Kwun Hang Ho 1, Colm O'Boyle 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Surgery, Bons Secours
Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Background: Morbid obesity is a worldwide epidemic, caused by increased caloric intake and
sedentary lifestyles, leading to a significant increase in cardiovascular complications. The
introduction of bariatric surgery has been shown to improve the parameters of metabolic syndrome.
Our study aims to compare the differences between RYGB and LSG on long-term lipid levels and
Body Mass Index (BMI) in patients who underwent bariatric surgery.
Methods: A total of 382 patients who underwent RYGB and LSG were followed-up for 24 months.
Fasting lipids and BMI were measured preoperatively and at 12 and 24 months postoperatively.
Results: Statistically significant differences (p
P5
Plasma Exchange in the Management of Paediatric Renal Conditions: Single Centre Experience
over 17 years
Conor Devlin 1, Conor Hensey 2, Clodagh Sweeney 3, Tara Raftery 3, Atif Awan 3, C Costigan 3, G Stone 3, M Waldron 3, N Dolan 3, M Riordan 3, M Stack 3
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 General Paediatrics, Children’s Health Ireland,
Dublin, Ireland; 3 The Department for Paediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, Children’s Health
Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
Background: Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (PLEX) is an adjunct therapy used in paediatric
nephrology despite less evidence available for its use compared to adults. The aim of this study was
to examine the indications, efficacy and safety of PLEX in a single centre over 17years.
Methods: A retrospective review of patients (n=59) who received PLEX between 2002-2019 for a
renal indication was performed. Clinical data and complications (e.g. anaemia, hypocalcaemia,
hypotension) arising from PLEX were documented. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSSv25.
This project was carried out in accordance with the local Code of Ethics.
Results: Fifty-nine patients (61% female) received PLEX. The median age was 3years (range:
3months–16years). A total of 1139 PLEX sessions were performed with a median number of 5
sessions per patient (range: 1-287). The most common indication was typical Haemolytic Uraemic
Syndrome (HUS) [(n= 29,(49.2%)] with 21(35.6%) of these patients having neurological involvement.
Atypical HUS [n=12,(20.3%)] and Recurrent Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis post
transplantation[n=4,(6.8%)] were also common indications. Forty-one (69.5%) patients had a
complication. Asymptomatic hypocalcaemia [n=25,(42.4%)] requiring calcium gluconate being most
common. Thirty-five (59.3%) patients had a full recovery. Twenty (33.8%) patients required
additional follow-up post-PLEX therapy, of which 6 (8.5%) patients required a renal transplant. One
death occurred due to the patient’s underlying renal condition. Neurological complications
associated with HUS resolved in 20/21 patients.
Conclusion: We have demonstrated the safe and efficacious use of PLEX in a tertiary paediatric
nephrology centre, including patients with neurological involvement in typical HUS. PLEX is a safe
and effective therapy in paediatric renal disorders.
P6
Exploring the Views of Irish General Practitioners to a Patient-held Checklist for Epilepsy Reviews:
A Qualitative Feasibility Study
Andrew Namespetra 1, W. Henry Smithson 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of General Practice,
University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
Background: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition, and patients require ongoing follow-up
with their healthcare providers. In Ireland, the management of patients with epilepsy in primary
care is challenging, as reported by general practitioners (GPs) in previous studies. A patient-held
checklist may increase involvement of the patients in their own care, as well as provide a tool for
effective consultations with their GP. This study aims to assess the feasibility of implementing a
checklist that would be held in the possession of patients with epilepsy and used as a guide during
consultations with their GP.
Methods: In this qualitative study, participants are GPs practicing in Ireland and are recruited by
convenience sampling. After informed consent is acquired, demographic data is collected and one-
on-one semi-structured interviews are conducted, digital audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim.
Thematic analysis is applied throughout the data collection period to identify significant themes.
Interviews will be conducted until thematic saturation is achieved.
Results: Interviews have commenced and data analysis is being conducted on an ongoing basis.
From preliminary analysis of the first five interviews, emerging results show that the predominant
perceived strengths of the checklist include communication across levels of care, patient education,
and patient empowerment. On the other hand, the predominant weaknesses of the checklist
include costs, time constraints and potential confidentiality issues.
Conclusion: Emerging themes in the opinions of GPs will be reported in order to draw conclusions
about the feasibility of a patient-held checklist and the potential for a follow-up pilot study.
P7
An Exploratory Study of the Prevalence of Palmar and Plantar Warts in Patients with Inflammatory
Bowel Disease
Therese Mc Carthy 1, Kate Finn 1, Aine Keogh 2, Gloria Avalos 1, 2, Laurence Egan 1, 2
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
Background: In order to induce and maintain remission from their symptoms, inflammatory bowel
disease (IBD) patients turn to immuno-modulating therapies. By decreasing cell mediated immunity,
these patients are at increased risk of acquiring unwanted viruses such as human papillomavirus.
The aim of this study was to investigate: prevalence of palmoplantar warts in IBD patients;
association between wart and immuno-modulating therapies.
Methods: Following ethical approval, 85 IBD patients consented to this single-centre, cross-
sectional observational study. Participants completed a study specific survey followed by an
examination of warts present. Prevalence of warts and numerous variables were analysed with chi
square tests. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to predict the presence of warts.
Results: Currently 19(22.4%) of the participants have warts. Participants using azathioprine are 6
times more likely to have palmar warts in comparison with other IBD medications. p=0.011, 95% CI
[1.5, 24.9]. Crohn's Disease participants are 5 times more likely to have palmar warts in comparison
with ulcerative colitis patients. p=0.034, 95% CI [1.1, 26.4]. No significant association between use of
biologic medications and warts was found. p=0.726.
Conclusion: The data suggests prevalence of warts in IBD patients is increased, with a diagnosis of
Crohn's disease and the use of azathioprine being the largest predictors of the presence of the
warts.
Funding Source: NUI Galway School of Medicine Summer Research Scholarship.
P8
Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs of Pregnant Women Regarding Epidural Analgesia
Catherine Henry 1, Daniel Mullane 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Anaesthetics, Cork
University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Background: Epidural analgesia is the most effective form of obstetric pain relief, with consent
currently sought during labour. Doubts exist as to whether this timing is ideal to support informed
decision-making. This study aims to describe pregnant women’s knowledge of epidural analgesia,
their sources of information, and their attitudes to the timing, extent and manner of delivery of
patient information.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was distributed to women
P9
An Audit of Paediatric Cases referred to the Office of the State Pathologist from 2012-2017
Shane Eakins 1, Kathleen Han Suyin 2, Linda Mulligan 2
1 School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 2 The Office of the State
Pathologist, Dublin, Ireland
Background: The Office of the State Pathologist (OSP) provides a nationwide forensic pathology
service in Ireland. Occasionally, the services of the OSP are requested following the sudden death of
a child (person less than 18 years of age). Paediatric autopsy pathology is significantly different to
that of adults and may require input from a paediatric pathologist (PP). This audit aims to determine
the relevance of forensic pathologists in child death investigations in Ireland, adherence by the OSP
to paediatric autopsy guidelines and to analyse the causes of these children’s deaths.
Methods: A retrospective review of all paediatric cases referred to the OSP from 2012-2017 was
conducted. Relevant information was collated and recorded using Microsoft Excel©.
Results: There were 79 cases included in this audit. 61 cases were referred as suspicious deaths
while 18 cases were referred without forensic suspicion. PP were involved in 20 cases. The
commonest causes of death for suspicious cases were homicide and road traffic accidents. The
commonest cause of death in children under the age of 3 was natural disease. Most of the paediatric
autopsy standards were reached by the OSP but there were some shortcomings identified.
Conclusion: Based on the assessment of deaths where a paediatric pathologist was not involved,
the standards in the respective guidelines were less likely to be adhered to. Coupled with the high
incidence of natural causes of death in children under three, it is more appropriate that these cases
be referred to a paediatric pathologist in the first instance.
P10
Correlation between Bhalla Score and Clinical Parameters in the Assessment of Disease Severity in
Cystic Fibrosis Patients with Poor Lung Function on treatment with Orkambi (ivacaftor/lumacaftor)
Dane Gunter 1, Michael M. Maher 2, Barry Plant 3, Owen J. O'Connor 2, Brian Carey 2, Richard
Kavanaugh 2, Stella Joyce 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Cork University Hospital Radiology
Department, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Cystic Fibrosis Treatment Centre, Cork
University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Background: Cystic Fibrosis is the most common lethal genetic disorder of Caucasian populations
with 1/19 people in Ireland carrying a mutant allele. Disease severity is determined through a
combination of clinical parameters such as FEV1 (%), FVC (%), and FEV1/FVCx100 and CT studies that
are given a numerical (Bhalla) score. The aim of the study was to assess clinical parameters and
Bhalla score in CF patients taking Orkambi.
Methods: This retrospective study took place in the CUH radiology and CF departments. The BMI,
FEV1 (%), and FVC (%) of 7 patients were measured at baseline, and after 3 and 6 months of
treatment. A modified Bhalla Scoring system was used by two radiologists to assess structural
changes on CT Thoraces. Statistical analysis was performed to determine correlation and change in
the data collected.
Results: Significant negative correlation was noted between total Bhalla Score and BMI at baseline
(r=-0.767, p=0.044) and after 6 months of treatment (r=-0.772, p=0.042). No correlation between
total Bhalla Score and BMI at 3 months, FEV1 (%), FVC (%), or FEV1/FVCx100 (p>0.05) was found. No
statistically significant change found in BMI, FEV1 (%), FVC (%), or Bhalla Score over the 6-month
period (p>0.05).
Conclusion: The lack of significant correlation between Bhalla Score and clinical parameters found in
this study indicates that the Bhalla score may not be sensitive enough to detect changes that may
have occurred in response to treatment. Orkambi has been shown to improve quality of life indices
and wellbeing of patients in previous studies but showed no statistically significant clinical or
stuctural improvement in this specific patient cohort over the 6-month period.
P11
Twinned Audit of Severe Pre-Eclampsia Management to Address Equity in Maternal and Fetal
Health in Mayo & Londiani
Katie Moran 1, Collins Biwott 2, Nada Warreth 3, Catherine Taaffe 3, Aoife Sweeney 1, Maria Kidney 4,
Anne Healy 4, Meabh Ni Bhuineain 1, 3
1 School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Londiani Sub-County
Hospital, East Kericho, Kenya; 3 Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar, Ireland; 4 Brighter Communities
Worldwide, Cork, Ireland
Background: Pre-eclampsia is a cause of maternal mortality and morbidity globally in all settings.
We conducted an initial audit cycle on adherence to the relevant national guidelines in twinned
hospitals both a high and low-income setting.
Methods: Preliminary audits were carried out in both Mayo University hospital, Ireland(MUH) and
Londiani Sub-county Hospital, Kenya(LSCH) using data from January 2017 to June 2019.In MUH, the
High Dependency Unit register and electronic medical record were used for data collection. In LSCH
the Maternity register and pharmacy records were used. The auditable standards for MUH were
taken from the relevant RCPI guidelines1,and for LSCH from the relevant guidelines by the Kenyan
Ministry of Public Health & Sanitation2.
Results: In MUH, anticonvulsant and antihypertensive medication protocol was followed in 75.6% of
cases. Documentation was found to be poor in clinical response to desaturation and fluid
management (not documented in 48.9% and 24,4% of cases respectively). In LSCH, institutional
maternal mortality was zero. Eclampsia was in 16.7%. Perinatal mortality was16.7%.Caesarean
section rate was 4%.
Conclusion As both hospitals have areas for improvement, there could be a regular joint
morbidity/mortality meeting under the twinning partnership. MUH: oversight of fluid management
in accordance with the national guideline; implementation of standard clinician response in oxygen
desaturation; Utilisation of diagnostic coding for severe preeclampsia. LSCH: establish a pre-
eclampsia register; validate and implement pre-eclampsia mitigation/safe referral program;
implement fetal assessment guidelines for pre-eclampsia.
P12
Safety Issues in Paediatric Emergency Departments
Mairéad O'Donnell 1, Ronan O'Sullivan 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Medical Assessment Unit, Bon Secours
Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Background: Paediatric Emergency Departments (PEDs) are a breeding ground for errors
(Crosskerry at al. 2011). In 2015, PERUKI (Paediatric Emergency Research UK and Ireland) identified
patient safety as one of the top 20 research priorities of paediatric emergency medicine (PEM)
(Hartshorn et al). In 2018, 21% of the 65,000 CUH ED presentations were children (HSE, 2019). It is
therefore paramount that potential areas for patient harm are identified to facilitate risk reduction.
The aim was to identify the leading safety issues occurring in PEDs.
Methods: A qualitative methodology, employing focus groups, was employed. Two focus groups,
facilitated by a Consultant in PEM, were held, comprised of medical and nursing staff from a mixed
adult/paediatric ED, and a tertiary-level paediatric-only ED, Interviews were conducted from a setlist
of open and closed questions, audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using the Attride-Stirling
framework for thematic analysis.
Results: From the global theme of ‘Safety Issues within PEDs’ emerged the themes of: Staffing,
Space and Support. The endless stop-gap solutions that become long-term ‘fixes’ in EDs are daily
struggles identified by the participants – with patient’s needs always taking precedence.
Conclusion: Safety issues are easily identified by staff in the ED. There are persistent endeavours to
identify and reduce the potential for patient harm, through ongoing training, the implementation of
new policies and persistent patient focused care to ensure the best patient outcome.
P13
The Use of Wearable Devices to monitor Motor Disability in Multiple Sclerosis - A Real World Pilot
Study
Daniel Coyle 1, Teresa Leahy 2, Eithne Waldron 3, Timothy Counihan 2
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Neurology, University Hospital
Galway, Galway, Ireland; 3 Department of Physiotherapy, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological disease to affect young
adults today. Although disease activity can be monitored by the development of clinical relapses and
new lesions on MRI, accumulating disability or silent progression, is difficult to identify early. With
the emerging interest in health monitoring technology we sought to investigate the usability of
wearable devices in monitoring long term motor function in MS.
Methods: In this observational prospective study 19 patients with MS, following ethics approval,
were fitted with a Fitbit Inspire device. Six Minute Timed Walk (6MTW) data was obtained under
clinical supervision and Home-based Fitbit usage was monitored remotely. Fatigability was measured
by comparing the step count at minute 1 versus minute 6 of the 6MTW.
Results: The mean daily adherence rate is 85.4%. The adherence rate of completing the Home
6MTW dropped over the study period from 34.2% to 5.3%. The patients performed 17.6 steps higher
on average in the minute 6 versus minute 1 in the 6MTW.
Conclusion In this pilot study we found a high rate of adherence to regular use of the Fitbit.
Fatigability was not identified on the 6MTW. Long-term monitoring may offer a guide on walking
performance. Our findings suggest that wearable technologies can provide useful longitudinal
monitoring in the long-term management of MS.
Funding: Health Research Board and the Galway Neurology Trust
P14
Assessment of Differences in Lifestyle Factors and Biological Sex on Cognition and Inflammation in
Healthy Older Aged Adults
Ciara O'Donoghue 1, 2, Caitriona Long-Smith 2, Stefanie Grabrucker 2, Gerard Clarke 3, 4, Suzanne
Timmons 5, Yvonne M. Nolan 2, 4
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience,
School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Psychiatry and
Neurobehavioural Science, School of Medicine, University College Cork; 4 APC Microbiome Ireland,
University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 5 Centre for Gerontology and Rehabilitation, School of
Medicine, University College Cork.
Background: Low grade chronic inflammation is a common feature of ageing and has been linked to
cognitive decline and the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Dementia occurs more
frequently in women, while men are at a greater risk for developing mild cognitive impairment.
Increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines have been shown to drive the progression of
cognitive decline during ageing, while certain lifestyle factors such as physical activity may reduce
the risk of developing dementia potentially because regular exercise exerts anti-inflammatory
effects. In contrast, obesity is associated with increased risk for cognitive decline. However, it is
currently unknown how these lifestyle factors influence pro-inflammatory cytokine expression
during ageing, and if differences in sex exert an influence.
Methods: A cohort (n=30) of healthy male and female participants (aged 65-85) were recruited from
waiting rooms in St. Finbarr’s hospital and retirement clubs based on medical history, current
medication status and Montreal cognitive assessment scores. Cognitive function was assessed using
the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. Serum samples were taken for analysis
of inflammatory cytokine levels (TNF)-α, (IL)-4, (IL)-6, (IL)-8, (IL)-10 and (IL)-1. Physical activity using
the International Physical Activity Questionnaires and body-mass index was recorded.
Results: There was a significant association between spatial working memory and sex, with females
tending to make more errors. We also found that physical activity reduced pro-inflammatory
cytokine levels, while higher BMI increased these levels.
Conclusion: Since the hippocampus is involved in spatial working memory, which is primarily
affected in AD, it would be interesting to further explore its function in women.
P15
Cancer Cachexia in Breast Cancer’s Effect on Muscle Fibre Size and Mitochondrial and Atrophic
RNA Expression in a Mouse Model
Jacob Lavieille-Curran 1, Roisin Dwyer 2, 3, Katarzyna Whysall 4, 5
1 School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Physiology,
School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 3 Regenerative Medicine Institute
(REMEDI®), National University of Ireland, Galway; 4 Department of Physiology, School of Medicine,
National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; 5 Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University
of Liverpool, United Kingdom.
Background: Cancer cachexia is a severe muscle wasting condition, affecting half of all cancer
patients. Being responsible for 20% of cancer deaths, cancer cachexia is an important area of
research in the treatment of cancer. This project aimed to explore the effects of breast cancer on
muscle homeostasis in a mouse model.
Methods: The gastrocnemius (GAS) and tibialis anterior (TA) were isolated from 3 control mice and 3
tumour-bearing mice. The muscles were cryosectioned at 8um, stained with WGA and fluorescently
imaged at 20x magnification. Furthermore, RNA was isolated to establish changes in the expression
of mitochondrial and atrophy-related genes.
Results: Despite changes in muscle mass and contrary to findings from human studies, no significant
difference was found between muscle fibre sizes in control mice and mice with cancer. A significant
decrease in the relative expression of the mitochondrial genes TOMM20 and ND1 was observed in
the TA samples from mice with cancer. A significant decrease in the relative expression of the
mitochondrial gene COXIV was also observed in the GAS samples from the tumour-bearing mice.
Conclusion: The differences in changes of expression of mitochondrial genes between TA and GAS
may be due to the muscle fibre type composition, with TA consisting mainly of type 2 (fast twitch)
and GAS containing a mix of type 1 (slow twitch) and type 2 fibres.
P16
A Retrospective Review of the Perinatal Palliative Care (PPC) Programme at Cork University
Maternity Hospital (CUMH)
Caoimhe Healy 1, 2, Anna-Maria Verling 2, 3, Rióna Cotter 2, Keelin O'Donoghue 1, 2, 3
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Pregnancy Loss Research Group, 3 Cork
University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Background: PPC is a philosophy of care for families following antenatal diagnosis and expected
delivery of a baby with a life-limiting condition. Within this environment science, ethics, and faith
intermingle in ways that affect everyone differently – there is one chance to get it right. The precious
time parents have to spend with their baby can be brief, so a comprehensive, individualised
approach is imperative. The HSE introduced the National Standards for Bereavement Care following
Pregnancy Loss and Perinatal Death (NSBC) with the purpose of enhancing bereavement care (BC)
services for families experiencing perinatal loss.
Methods: E-charts were reviewed against the NSBC. CUMH’s Bereavement Specialist Team and the
National Implementation Team supplemented data. Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS -25.
Results: 38 referrals were received between 2017-2018. 36.8% pregnancies ended in stillbirth,
28.9% second-trimester miscarriage and 34.2% early-neonatal death. All pregnancies were cared for
in dedicated rooms with the pregnancy loss symbol displayed clearly where appropriate. All points of
care from the NSBC were observed to a high standard. Inconsistencies were noted in GP
correspondence, and in the provision of written information surrounding antenatal diagnoses.
CUMH appeared varied in efforts to ensure educational staff programmes in BC are available and/or
mandatory. CUMH is working on formal policies for staff support services.
Conclusion: This review allows for development of an audit tool for the NSBC. It is evident that
formalised and mandatory educational structures are needed to overcome inconsistencies in staff
training. Comprehensive documentation by staff is also lacking and needs improving.
P17
Assessing the Usefulness of Three-dimensional Imaging and Virtual Reality in Surgical Planning: A
Medical Student Led Pilot Study
Clodagh Ryan 1, Eoin O' Malley 2, Declan Sheppard 2
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Radiology, University Hospital
Galway (UHG), Galway, Ireland.
Background: Nephron-sparing surgery is becoming more common as surgical techniques advance.
Virtual reality(VR) and three-dimensional(3D) visualisation appear to provide better anatomical
understanding in pre surgical planning than two-dimensional alone. 3D models may enable greater
tissue salvation and fewer complications. 3D model preparation and advancing research is expensive
and time consuming. The aim was to conduct a pilot study led by a medical student, create reliable
anatomical kidney models and assess usefulness in surgical planning.
Methods: Routine computerised tomography(CT) Urograms were performed on 128 slice scanner
using split bolus technique. Medical student segmented and displayed models in VR using 3DSlicer.
Radiology registrar and consultant validated models. Two urology surgeons completed qualitative
questionnaires.
Results: Two patients were included. Only minor segmentation tweaks required by radiologist
ensured accurately demonstrated tumors. Tissue contrast quality varied between CT scans
complicating segmentation. Both surgeons deemed models helpful in visualising hilar anatomy,
determining laparoscopic/open approach and predicting bleeding complications. Surgeons
prioritised vasculature visualisation over collecting system. One surgeon suggested gauging tumor
depth would be especially useful. Considering 3D printing cost, surgeons agreed VR may suffice
alone.
Conclusion: Surgeons found 3D and VR useful for surgical planning. Minor recommendations
tweaking CT protocol make segmentation easier and more accurate, without increasing patient’s
radiation exposure. It’s feasible for medical students with minimal surgical or radiological knowledge
to advance this research and gain valuable experience. Annual leave during summer reflects case
numbers. Since, we’ve identified more cases. We’ll assess surgical parameters against matched
cohort. We’ve also begun work for adrenal surgery.
P18
The Added Utility of the EMA Panel to the Clinical and Pharmacological Management of Suspected
Inflammatory Conditions
Siobhan Clifford 1, Grainne Murphy 2, John Ryan 2, Liam Chawke 3, Carol Higgins 4, Katherine Hooley 4,
Caroline Joyce 4, Seán Costelloe 4
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Rheumatology, Cork
University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Respiratory Medicine, Cork University Hospital,
Cork, Ireland; 4 CUH Immunology Laboratory, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Background: The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies are a rare collection of disorders
characterised by proximal muscle weakness, cutaneous manifestations, Raynaud’s syndrome,
interstitial lung disease and arthropathy. Introduction of the EMA panel, testing for myositis specific
and myositis associated antibodies (MSA/MAA) provides an additional mode of investigation to
further refine inflammatory diagnoses and management. The objectives of the study are: to
determine autoantibody prevalence from EMA panels; to identify disease manifestation in those
with a positive result; to establish if presence of autoantibodies alters a diagnosis or treatment.
Methods: This is a retrospective chart review of CUH patients with a positive EMA panel test
between January 2013 and June 2018. Data was obtained from CUH immunology lab archives,
supplemented by patient charts and analysed using SPSS.
Results: 25.5% (86) of 337 EMA panel tested positive for MSA/MSAs. The most prevalent antibodies
were Ro-52 (33%), PMSCl-75 (18%), Mi-2a/b (15%) and TIF1-gamma (10%). The most common
disease presentation was ILD at 57% followed by arthropathy with a prevalence of 30%. Raynaud’s,
myositis and cutaneous lesions were present in approximately 29% patients. Patient diagnosis was
adjusted in 40% and 62% experienced improvement in symptoms subsequent to medication
alterations.
Conclusion: The EMA panel lead to a change in diagnosis for patients with subsequent adjustment of
treatment and improvement of disease manifestations. 39% patients went on to have a myositis-
related diagnosis following EMA test proving its use clinically. However, due small population size a
longer-term study is required to precisely elucidate correlation between antibodies, diagnoses and
treatment.
P19
Effects of Chemotherapy on Tumor Stromal Cells in Breast Cancer Patients
Carson McFeetors 1, Domhnall O'Connor 1, Gloria Avalos 2, Laura Barkely 1, Michael Kerin 1
1 Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2
The Clinical Science Institute, The National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
Background: Tumor stromal cells (TSCs) are a heterogenous population of non-cancer cells that
exist within the tumor microenvironment. TSCs have a role in cancer development, progression and
survival by a variety of mechanisms. Their expression of the cell surface markers GP38, PDGFR-α,
PDL-1 and CD29 have been implicated in these processes. This study aims to establish what effect
the chemotherapeutics; doxorubicin, paclitaxel and 5-FU have on the expression levels of these
markers.
Methods: Core biopsies from the tumor mass (TSC) and distant breast tissue (TAN) were obtained
from 2 patients undergoing curative surgery for breast cancer. Stromal cells were isolated and
incubated. Once cell growth was established, a fixed number (5x105) of both cell populations were
exposed to 1µM or 5µM paclitaxel, 1 µM or 5 µM 5-FU and 1 µM or 10 µM doxorubicin for 24hours.
After this period cells were harvested and expression of the cell surface markers of interest was
carried out by flow cytometry.
Results: In untreated TSCs and TANs the mean Mean Flourescence Intensitys for PDL-1, GP38,
CD29 and PDGFRa were (TSCvTAN) (1476v1019), (7322v11421), (158954v148313), (749v2552)
respectively. Exposure to 1µM and 5 µM Paclitaxel produced MFIs of were TSCvTAN (236v143),
(606v425), (15919v15914) and (45.6v49.1) respectively at 1 µM and (252v147), (602v379),
(16185v16410) and (43.5v43.1) at 5 µM). Exposure to 1µM and 5 µM 5FU produced and mean MFIs
of (3421v1315), (15924v16983), (191245v179943) and (2394v933) at 1 µM. At 5 µM the mean MFIs
were (1237v1425), (14719v18033), (125808v265000) and (21569v641) respectively. Finally,
Exposure to 1µM and 10 µM Doxorubicin produced a mean MFIs of (3589v1530), (16312v17752),
(212258v204133) and (1911v644) at 1 µM and (1381v1640), (14434v18682), (82055v81492) and
(2173v113) for 10 µM Doxorubicin.
Conclusion: Any contribution made to the tumorigenesis by TSC overexpressing PDL-1 and GP38 is
unimpaired by exposure to adjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer. No change is seen when you
introduce chemotherapy to the cell surface receptors.
P20
Brain Imaging at the Time of Diagnosis of Lung Cancer. A Large Retrospective Study of Compliance
with National Guidelines.
EP Soh 1, MT Henry 2, D Power 3, MP Kennedy 2
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Respiratory Medicine,
Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Oncology, Cork University Hospital, Cork,
Ireland
Background: One recent National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) lung cancer guideline focused on
areas of lung cancer management with variation in practise, emerging evidence or uncertainty
including highlighting the importance of brain imaging in patients with stage III non-small cell lung
carcinoma (NSCLC) undergoing treatment with curative intent and limited small cell lung carcinoma
(SCLC) 3. However, brain imaging was not recommended in patients with stage I and II NSCLC.
Methods: Our objective was to determine in our institution if patients with NSCLC or SCLC are
undergoing appropriate brain imaging within 60 days of initial diagnosis as per NCCP guidelines
through analysing all patients presenting in 2016.
Results: All 300 patients were included 252 (84%) NSCLC, 48 (16%) SCLC. All asymptomatic NSCLC
stage I or II patients did not receive brain imaging as per NCCP guidelines. 48 patients had stage III
NSCLC. 41 underwent treatment with curative intent, and only 13 received brain imaging (32%).
Amongst those with limited SCLC (n = 13), 1 patient (7.7%) did not receive brain imaging.
Conclusion: With regards to the NCCP guidelines, our centre is compliant in stages I and II NSCLC and
limited SCLC. However, we are not compliant regarding brain imaging in stage III NSCLC undergoing
curative intent.
P21
Knowledge of and Attitudes Towards HPV and the HPV Vaccine among Inflammatory Bowel
Disease Patients
Kate Finn 1, Laurence Egan 2, Therese McCarthy 1, Aine Keogh 3, Linda Duane 3
1 School of Medicine, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland; 2 Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics,
University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland; 3 Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Galway,
Galway, Ireland
Background: Treatment induced immunosuppression of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) patients
may cause an increased risk of developing chronic HPV infections and subsequently HPV-related
cancers. IBD patients should receive the HPV vaccine if available to them, however the attitudes and
acceptability of the HPV vaccine in IBD patients is unknown. The aim was to investigate awareness,
knowledge and attitude to HPV and the HPV vaccine in patients with IBD.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 86 IBD patients were recruited at outpatient clinics in
University Hospital Galway and the infusion unit in Merlin Park Hospital. Participants completed a
demographics and medical history questionnaire as well as a modified version of the Carolina HPV
Immunization Attitudes and Beliefs Scale (CHIAS). The study was approved by NUI Galway Research
Ethics Committee. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS v26.
Results: 69.4% (59) had heard of HPV and 30.6% (26) had not. 70.6% (60) had heard of the HPV
vaccine and 29.4% (25) had not. 68.8% (33) of participants agreed they would receive the vaccine if
offered to them, and 31.3% (15) stated they would not. Males were less likely than females to have
heard of HPV (p=0.003) or the HPV vaccine (p
P22
An Investigation into Potential Prognostic Indicators in a Large Cohort of Patients with Small Cell
Lung Cancer (SCLC)
Thomas Talbot 1, Richard Bambury 2, Michael Henry 3, Marcus Kennedy 3
1 School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; 2 Department of Medical Oncology, Cork
University Hospital, Cork, Ireland; 3 Department of Respiratory Medicine, Cork University Hospital,
Cork, Ireland
Background: SCLC is a highly aggressive, undifferentiated neoplasia that originates from the
precursors of neuroendocrine cells and is characterised by a high proliferation rate and early
metastasis. The aim of this research was to investigate the potential prognostic benefit of several
clinical and lab-based variables in all patients radiologically diagnosed with SCLC in CUH between
2011 and 2014.
Methods: All patients with SCLC diagnosed through CUH MDT between 2011 and 2014 were
identified. Data for potential prognostic indicators was analysed using Kaplan-Meir Curves and Cox
Regression Analysis on IBM SPSS v25.
Results: Initially, 116 patients were identified, however 39 were excluded due to lack of data, leaving
77 patients to be included in the study (mean age = 66, female = 43%). Factors that had prognostic
significance following univariate analysis were age, disease extent, gender, albumin, neutrophil to
lymphocyte ratio, and urea. Disease extent, age at diagnosis and NLR were found to be independent
prognostic indicators following multivariate Cox regression analysis.
Conclusion: In conclusion age and extensive stage were, as expected, associated wit